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Types of Massage
There are a variety of different styles, types and techniques of massage utilized by massage therapists. We've provided a description of some of the more popular and well known types of massage being used today. » Deep Tissue Massage» Myofascial
Release» Prenatal
Massage» Stone Massage» Swedish Massage
» Lymphatic Drainage MassageDeep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue or fascia. This type of massage focuses on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity, such as athletes, and patients who have sustained physical injury. It is also not uncommon for receivers of Deep Tissue Massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two. Deep tissue work varies greatly. What one calls deep tissue another will call light. When receiving deep tissue work it is important to communicate what you are feeling.[2]
Myofascial
ReleaseMyofascial release is a form of soft tissue therapy used to treat somatic dysfunction and accompanying pain and restriction of motion. This is accomplished by relaxing contracted muscles, increasing circulation, increasing venous and lymphatic drainage, and stimulating the stretch reflex of muscles and overlying fascia.[2]Prenatal
MassagePrenatal massage is similar to massage during non-pregnancy in terms of the goals (relaxation, pain relief, increased circulation & mobility, etc.). However, due to the changes undergone during pregnancy, modification are made. To accommodate swollen tender breasts and a growing belly, special pillows, positioning and techniques are utilized to ensure comfort for both the expecting mother and baby. With increasing weight, a changing center of gravity and the many other changes associated with pregnancy, prenatal massage can help provide relief and a sense of well being that is much deserved.[1]
Lymphatic Drainage Massage - LDT LDT is a hands on process that involves the use of subtle manual massage to aid in the circulation of lymphatic flow. This type of massage is beneficial for allergies, migraines, fibromyalgia and certain types of illnesses.[1] Hot Stone MassageA stone massage uses water-heated stones to apply pressure and heat to the body. Stones coated in oil can also be used by the therapist delivering various massaging strokes. The hot gentalused are commonly river stones which over time, have become extremely polished and smooth. As the stones are placed along the recipient's back, they help to retain heat which then deeply penetrates into the muscles, releasing tension.[2]Swedish
Massage
Swedish massage uses five
styles of long, flowing strokes to massage. The five basic strokes are
effleurage (sliding or gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement
(rhythmic tapping), friction (cross fiber) and vibration/shaking.
Swedish massage has shown to be helpful in reducing pain, joint
stiffness, and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis of the
knee over a period of eight weeks. It has also been shown to be helpful
in individuals with poor circulation. The development of Swedish
massage is credited to Per Henrik Ling, though the Dutch practitioner
Johan Georg Mezger adopted the French names to denote the basic strokes.
The term "Swedish" massage is not really known in the country of
Sweden, where it is called "classic massage".[2]
[1] Content Copyright ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC dba MassagePlanet.com [2] Content Obtained from Wikipedia.com.
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